18 Must-Visit Restaurants In The US That Specialize In One Dish
The idea of doing one thing right and sticking to it works in a variety of fields, but especially cooking. There are dozens of reasons for a restaurant to narrow its focus to one single dish. Aside from the lower cost of ingredients and predictability in kitchen workflow, practice makes perfect. Across the U.S., a growing number of restaurants are joining the herd to specialize in just one dish and deliver the best possible version of it.
What makes these spots must-visit isn't just their delicious signature dish, but oftentimes the history, eccentric decor, and community support. To determine the can't-miss one-dish restaurants in the U.S., I combined firsthand experience with extensive research. For the ones I've had the pleasure of visiting, I drew from personal notes and conversations with staff and locals. For the rest, I combed through countless diner reviews, press coverage, and roundups to find the most beloved and consistently praised spots. Whether it's a simple hot dog and fries or a perfectly seared skirt steak, these spots prove that less is more every time the doors open. If you're prone to decision fatigue, these 18 must-visit restaurants will make dining out in the U.S. easy.
Skirt Steak, New York City, NY
If you want perfectly prepared steak and endless fries, look no further than Skirt Steak right on 6th Avenue. This chic Chelsea steakhouse only offers one set menu and it's a French classic: steak with a peppercorn-bearnaise, a house salad, and (lots of) crispy frites. For vegetarians, the restaurant offers a cauliflower steak option, complete with the same greens and endless French fries.
The restaurant, led by chef Laurent Tourondel, takes the stress out of ordering and lets diners focus on the experience. Tourondel, who grew up in a quaint French town, aimed to bring his childhood memories back to life when opening Skirt Steak in 2021. The atmosphere is comfortable with warm, golden wooden interiors, but still feels special and modern. It's moderately priced as far as NYC steakhouses go ($45 pre-fixe), especially when considering the fries are unlimited. After your perfect meal, a trolley will come rolling by with assorted desserts available a la carte for $12 each. Choose from daily specials like assorted cakes, fruit tarts, and chocolate mousse.
(212) 201-4069
835 6th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Yume Wo Katare, Cambridge, MA
There are dozens of different types of ramen, but at Yume Wo Katare, founder Tsuyoshi Nishioka and head chef Jake Vo only focus on one. The menu is hardly a menu, with just one core dish: special pork ramen. The rich broth holds noodles, bean sprouts, cabbage, and chashu pork. Other than adding garlic and choosing between fatty pork or even fattier pork to top your ramen, decisions can take a night off.
One reviewer noted that eating there "almost feels like you are at a workshop," as chef Vo chats and engages with the intimate group of guests at the six-seat counter in front of the open kitchen. The restaurant, which only has a total of 18 seats, is about so much more than just ramen. Literally translating to "talk about your dreams," Yume Wo Katare is a unique haven built on connection and tradition. Chef Nishioka hoped to create a space where people could find motivation and hope through his warming ramen, and it's been a success for over a decade now.
(617) 714-4008
1923 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
Rice To Riches, New York City, NYC
Some people say Rice To Riches is nothing more than a crime front, but even so, the rice pudding parlor is delicious. The shop offers dozens of creative flavors ranging from classic cinnamon to inventive combinations like French toast and panna cotta. The sleek, modern space in Nolita feels more like a trendy boutique than a dessert shop, with metallic surfaces and mood lighting that make the many pudding varieties and toppings along the white counter pop.
While it might seem gimmicky at first, the quality of the rice pudding has kept this single-item concept thriving since 2003, proving that comfort food never goes out of style, as long as it's done right. Prices are manageable for a treat ($8.50 for a standard eight-ounce serving), with takeout and nationwide shipping available. Open from 11 AM straight through 11 PM, Rice To Riches is always there for a sweet, healthy-ish delight.
(212) 274-0008
37 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Louis' Lunch, New Haven, CT
Founded in 1895, Louis' Lunch claims to have invented the hamburger sandwich, and they're still doing it "their way". Burgers are hand-ground daily, cooked in vertical cast-iron grills, and served on white toast with cheese, tomato, and onion. Don't even think about asking for ketchup or mustard because they don't even keep them on the premises. The small red-brick building feels frozen in time, packed with college students and loyal burger eaters. Some feel strongly about choosing the perfect toasty burger bun, but Louis' take on a burger sandwich is closer to a tasty patty melt, sandwiched between two pieces of bread.
The set menu is minimal, just offering burgers with sides of potato salad and chips, topped off with a slice of homemade pie for dessert. Affordable and walk-in only, Louis' sits in downtown New Haven, just steps from the Yale Art Gallery. It's a must-stop for anyone who respects tradition and purity in a classic American meal.
(203) 562-5507
261 Crown St, New Haven, CT 06511
Eim Khao Mun Kai, Queens, NY
Hidden in Queens' Elmhurst neighborhood, Eim Khao Mun Kai has one star dish, and the name gives it away. The small Thai restaurant specializes in khao mun kai, a Thai-style Hainanese chicken dish. It's tender poached chicken over garlicky rice, served with a punchy chili-ginger sauce and a clear broth. That's essentially the entire menu, and it's all you need. Hainanese chicken and rice is a special dish in Singapore, woven deep into the culinary traditions.
The restaurant's focus allows it to nail every detail from the texture to the flavor, and even the plating. The small, modest spot has counter seating, quick service, and affordable prices starting at $14. If you're craving authenticity and heart over flash, Eim Khao Mun Kai is the place to be, especially on a cold New York afternoon.
(718) 424-7156
81-32 Broadway, Elmhurst, NY 11373
The Beefmastor Inn, Wilson, NC
At The Beefmastor Inn, there's no menu, only rib-eye steak dinners. When seated, guests are promptly asked three questions: what size cut they would like, how they would like it cooked, and if they'd like the restaurant's beloved steamed onions. That's it. Steaks are sliced tableside and served with baked potatoes, salad, and good ol' buttery Texas toast.
The setting is cozy and old-school, with wood paneling and a loyal local crowd. It's moderately priced for steakhouse-quality food, but don't rely on reservations; they use a parking-lot waiting system. Located off I-95, it's a cult stop for travelers and steak lovers looking for a little homestyle comfort made with love.
(252) 237-7343
2656 US-301 S, Wilson, NC 27893
S'Mac, New York City, NY
Short for "Sarita's Macaroni & Cheese," S'Mac in the East Village is a temple to mac and cheese, and has been since 2006. There are plenty of places to grab a creamy bowl of mac and cheese in NYC, but none will give you this many variations. While you can customize toppings or choose from options like Buffalo Chicken or Mediterranean, every dish revolves around the same creamy base of elbow macaroni and melted cheese.
The bright, casual restaurant feels like a college favorite, adored for its comforting and affordable concept. Dine in, grab takeout, or order late-night delivery. Expect to pay between $10 and $15 per average-sized steamy skillet, with some smaller portions priced as low as $7.45. Conveniently near NYU and St. Mark's Place, it's the perfect stop for students or just anyone seeking comfort in a bowl.
(212) 358-7912
197 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003
3190, Miami, FL
At 3190, known locally as just "Si Papa," you'll find one dish and one dish only: lasagna. Chef Giulio Rossi's slow-cooked Si Papa lasagna has earned cult status around Miami for its rich béchamel layers and perfectly browned top. The cozy, candlelit interior seats fewer than 20, creating an intimate, almost speakeasy vibe. If there's room after lasagna, the meal can be finished off with Rossi's legendary tiramisu.
One of the best parts of this special lasagna is that it only costs $15, far less than the $80 dinner at 3190's sister restaurant, Coteletta. The restaurant doesn't take reservations, but once guests get in the door, they can plan for a relaxed evening of classic Italian fare and excellent service.
3190 Commodore Plaza, Miami, FL 33133
Paul's Pel'meni, Madison, WI
This tiny Madison staple keeps it simple — Russian dumplings, or pelmeni, served hot, buttery, and soul-warming. Choose beef or potato, then add butter, curry powder, hot sauce, and sour cream if you like (the true Russian way). The restaurant has a cozy, student-friendly vibe, ideal for a quick meal or late-night craving. Everything is under $10, and takeout is encouraged. Located near the University of Wisconsin campus, Paul's Pel'meni is a small but mighty spot where a simple bowl of dumplings hits every note of comfort food bliss.
Paul's Pel'meni feels like a friend's kitchen, complete with mismatched decor and the smell of melting butter wafting out the door. It's cheap, filling, and comforting in that "this could cure any bad day" kind of way. Many locals swear it's the best late-night food in the city, and after just one bite, you'll see why.
(608) 467-3234
414 W Gilman St, Madison, WI 53703
YeDon, Queens, New York
Queens is full of hidden gems, and YeDon (short for YeDon Donkatsu) is one of them. The restaurant specializes entirely in Korean-style pork cutlets known as donkatsu. They're incredibly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with slaw and rice. Each order is plated beautifully, with meticulous attention to crunch and balanced sauce. That's the whole menu, and yet the line forms early.
Inside, the minimalist space feels like a tiny Tokyo lunch counter, with friendly service and efficient rhythm. The casual restaurant charges $20 for its one memorable dish, which comes with a bowl of cream soup. Located in Bayside, it's a neighborhood favorite that locals crave week after week.
(718) 224-3080
209-11 Northern Blvd, Bayside, NY 11361
Pommes Frites, New York City, NYC
The narrow Greenwich Village French fry shop feels distinctly European. For nearly two decades, Pommes Frites has been NYC's go-to spot for Belgian-style fries. Thick-cut, twice-fried potatoes served piping hot in paper cones, with more than 30 dipping sauces to choose from, with varieties spanning truffle mayo to Vietnamese pineapple.
The casual, small space is often standing-room only, with lines wrapped around the block once bar-hoppers get hungry. The paper cone wrapping makes it mess-free and easy to scarf down on the way to the next destination. Prices are reasonable considering the generous portions, with the ability to share large orders among friends. A regular-sized cone, seemingly designed for one, is under $10.
(212) 674-1234
128 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012
Hot Dog Johnny's, Buttzville, NJ
A true roadside classic, Hot Dog Johnny's has been slinging hot dogs and classic cut French fries since 1944, and nothing else. The riverside stand has retro charm with neon signs, root beer (and birch beer) in frosty mugs, and picnic benches under the trees. Prices hover around $7 per meal, and service is as quick as it is friendly. For just serving one of the simplest American foods, Hot Dog Johnny's makes a lasting impression on every customer, with five-star reviews flowing in on the regular.
Located along Route 46, it's the perfect nostalgic pit stop for travelers heading through northwestern New Jersey. It's worth the detour off I-80 for a bite of New Jersey history. Hot Dog Johnny's is the definition of roadside Americana: cash only and classic comfort.
(908) 453-2882
333 US-46, Belvidere, NJ 07823
Bun Bo Hue Duc Chuong, Houston, TX
This Houston favorite does one thing, and that's Bún Bò Huế, a spicy Vietnamese beef noodle soup brimming with lemongrass, chili oil, and tender cuts of beef. You can choose a small or large bowl and adjust the spice, but that's about it when it comes to customization, although no Houston residents are complaining. Each bowl costs under $15 and is full of rich broth that's aromatic and deeply satisfying, layered with flavor that lingers long after you've finished your meal.
The dry Texas heat never keeps locals from sweating over a bowl of this savory soup. The casual dining room hums with regulars, and the portions are generous enough to feed two. It's a must for anyone who can't get enough soup.
yelp.com/biz/bun-bo-hue-duc-chuong-houston-2
(832) 351-2655
12804 Gulf Fwy, Houston, TX 77034
Gol Tong Chicken, Los Angeles, CA
This cozy Koreatown spot is all about one dish, and as one would guess, it's Korean fried chicken. At Gol Tong Chicken, the crispy pieces are served with various sauces like soy garlic, spicy gochujang, or honey butter. Each order is made fresh to order for maximum crunch.
The chef, a one-man operation, is known for treating each dish like a masterpiece, often chatting with guests while cooking. The walls are plastered with snapshots of happy, full customers, giving it a real homey charm. Prices start at $22 for the smallest portion, which comes with your choice of sauces. The restaurant's interior is quirky and welcoming, decorated with film posters and knick-knacks collected by the owner, a retired movie set designer.
(213) 716-6116
361 S Western Ave #101, Los Angeles, CA 90020
Brooklyn Kolache, Brooklyn, NY
Kolaches — soft, pillowy Czech pastries filled with everything from jam to sausage — are just about the only thing on the menu at Brooklyn Kolache, and they're done to perfection. The shop's focus on one item means every bite is light, fresh, and buttery. The bakery has a warm, neighborhood vibe, spreading the smell of butter and yeast in the air.
You'll find both sweet and savory options, like jalapeño-cheddar sausage or cherry cream cheese. Most kolaches are between four and six bucks, and they sell out quickly, especially on weekends, and once they sell out, that's it for the day.
(718) 398-1111
520 DeKalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Jones Bar-B-Q Diner, Marianna, AR
One of America's oldest Black-owned barbecue joints, Jones Bar-B-Q Diner has served the same pulled pork sandwich for over a century. That's the only menu item — no brisket, no sides — just slow-smoked pork in a tangy vinegar-based sauce, served on white bread. It might be one tiny building, but big flavors come out of that window as early as seven in the morning. The sandwich is served on styrofoam plates and placed upon red and white checkerboard tableclothes. The humble space may not look like much, but once you get a taste of that sandwich and get to know the endearing chefs behind the magic, you'll see the hype.
The family-run diner is tiny, humble, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, playing a huge part in Arkansas history. Sandwiches cost under $10, cash only, and when they sell out, the team calls it for the day. For barbecue purists, it's a pilgrimage-worthy taste of Southern history.
(870) 295-3807
219 W Louisiana St, Marianna, AR 72360
Cotoletta, Miami, FL
Cotoletta feels like a secret dinner party in Milan transported to Miami. The restaurant serves just one entrée: cotoletta alla Milanese. It's a buttery, golden-fried veal cutlet the size of a plate; crisp on the outside, tender within, and served with a curated set of sides and house dessert.
The minimalist menu allows the kitchen to focus on perfect execution, and the vibe, which is elegant and dimly lit, makes it feel extra special. Owned by the same team as Si Papa, it shares the same ethos. If you're going to make one dish, make it unforgettable. Check and mate from Miami's 84 Magic Hospitality, the creative minds behind Cotoletta.
(786) 409-7151
3206 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133
Nong's Khao Man Gai (Portland, OR)
At Nong's Khao Man Gai, simplicity reigns. Nong Poonsukwattana began serving her version of khao man gai (Thai chicken and rice) from a Portland food cart, and it became so beloved that she opened permanent locations. For years, it was the only thing on the menu: poached chicken, fragrant rice, cucumber, cilantro, and a punchy fermented soybean sauce.
"In Thailand, it's normal for restaurants to focus on one dish — as long as you do it really, really well," Nong's website reads. While the menu has since expanded slightly, the signature remains the star. The space is casual and cozy, with prices around $15 per plate. A must for fans of comforting, minimalist Thai cuisine.
Two locations in Portland, OR
Methodology
To establish the restaurants on this list, I referred to personal experience whenever possible and then carried out in-depth research. I discovered positive experiences from Yelp and Google reviews, local and widespread press, social media, and roundups that solidified these 18 restaurants as must-dos. Each of these restaurants has an intriguing history, some with decades of memories and others with just a handful of glorious years, but these chefs are all doing something special.
A restaurant earned a spot here if its primary dish was consistently delicious, but also for building a genuine connection with the community, creating a welcoming atmosphere, and generally standing out in the restaurant scene. These chefs have a clear vision, and they deliver it every time. I wasn't aiming to find the fanciest or most expensive singular dishes across America, but rather the ones that prove there's strength in simplicity.